About ADHDUnderstanding ADHD, and how coaching helps
The three types of ADHD
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, though the name doesn't tell the whole story. ADHD brains aren't short on attention; they find it hard to direct attention where and when it's needed.
01
ADHD Predominantly Inattentive
(ADHD-PI)
02
ADHD Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive
(ADHD-HI)
03
ADHD Combined
What's happening in the brain
Working memory
Goal-directed persistence
Impulsivity
Flexibility
Stress tolerance
Metacognition
Emotional control
Planning, prioritising, and organisation
Task Initiation
Sustained attention
Time management
Within the brain there is the prefrontal cortex (part of the frontal lobe). The prefrontal cortex contributes to a variety of behaviours and executive functions such as:
Typically, these executive functions within an ADHD brain can develop slower and children, adolescents and young adults skills can be delayed by approximately 3 years than those who are neurotypical. Those with ADHD must work harder to use these executive function skills and therefore can become fatigued in the afternoon, and as a result can find it harder to control emotions, maintain attention and their behaviour.
The good news is there are tools that can be implemented to break through these difficulties.
The strengths that come with ADHD
ADHD comes with real challenges, and it also comes with real strengths. People with ADHD are often:
Charismatic and fun
Enthusiastic, with energy to spare
Spontaneous and intuitive
Sensitive and creative
Hyper-focused on what they're passionate about, often becoming masters in their field
Willing to take the risks that lead to great results
Coaching is about both sides: managing the challenges and making the most of what you bring to the world.
What is ADHD Coaching?
ADHD Coaching is a partnership between coach and client. We work together to enhance areas of your life, whether it be personal, educational or professional.
We build an awareness and appreciation of who you are, what you value and we will uncover your strengths and discover your capabilities.
Together we will push through obstacles that may be stopping you from reaching the success you desire and deserve.
ADHD coaching vs therapy
ADHD Coaching
Focuses on the present and future.
Helps you develop practical skills and strategies.
Works on executive function challenges such as organisation, planning, time management and follow-through.
Action-oriented with agreed goals and accountability.
Helps you create systems that work with your ADHD brain.
Celebrates strengths while building practical solutions.
Sessions often end with clear actions to try before the next meeting.
Therapy
Often explores the past as well as the present.
Helps you understand and process thoughts, emotions and experiences.
Supports emotional wellbeing, mental health, trauma, anxiety, depression and relationships.
Exploration and healing through reflection and evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Helps you understand why you think, feel or respond in certain ways.
Supports emotional growth, resilience and recovery.
Sessions may focus on insight, processing and emotional understanding.
The Good News!
You don't have to choose one or the other. Many people find that therapy and ADHD Coaching compliment each other.
Therapy helps you heal and ADHD Coaching helps you move forward with practical tools, strategies and accountability. Together, they can be a powerful combination.
What makes an ADHD Coach different from other Coaches?
ADHD Coaching requires specific and specialised accredited training that includes a deep understanding of ADHD and executive functioning. As an accredited ADHD Coach (and a person with ADHD I understand that we struggle with our executive functions skills. This must be considered when coaching a person with ADHD as setting goals will also mean working on the following challenges:
Getting started - Maintaining focus - Organising - Planning - Managing time
- Remembering the details - Regulating emotions - Impulse control
Together, we will work through these challenges to find solutions tailor-made for you.